Two AFP journalists covering the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital city have been arrested by operatives of the Nigeria Police.
The journalists – an American identified as Nicholas Roll and John, a Nigerian – were arrested during the protest demanding the immediate release of Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).
According to Sahara Reporters, the journalists were arrested and their phones, cameras and other gadgets confiscated by the police officials.
Several other protesters who witnessed the duo’s arrest said the police had first fired tear gas at the reporters before arresting them.
It was also gathered that the police at some point returned their phones but refused to hand over their security gear and cameras.
The witnesses also stated that the operatives had argued that the journalists had failed to inform the police of their intention to cover the #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest.
“Their argument is that John should have informed the police that he was going to be there,” one of the witnesses said.
While the police have released Nicholas, John is still in Police custody.
The #FreeNnamdiKanuNow protest started in the early hours of Monday, October 20, with several supporters and members of the IPOB protesting the prolonged detention of Kanu by the Federal Government.
The protesters led by publisher and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore took to the streets of Abuja despite warnings by the Police and the Federal Government barring them from converging in some key locations across the Federal Capital Territory.
Also, in a swift move, the Nigeria Police have blocked major exits and entrances into the FCT leading to a massive gridlock in the city.
Mr Sowore should seek the consent of Brics Nation through Letter,addressing it to Mr Putin the Russian President who made a promise to free any African Country that is willing.